The NBA’s Boxing Week Bargains: Marcus Camby, Monta Ellis, David Lee, Jamario Moon, & Beno Udrih
December 27 07
This week, shoppers flock to big-box retail stores in hopes of scoring a deal. Everyone wants to save a few bucks on a big-ticket, luxury item.
The NBA isn’t much different than the retail game. Except, instead of spending one week bargain hunting, GMs and front office executives dedicate 365 days a year to finding affordable players.
With boxing week upon us, now is the perfect time to list a few of the NBA’s most underpaid players.
Marcus Camby, Denver Nuggets, $8 000,000.0
Why: The reigning defensive player of the year is seriously slept-on. After all, the going rate for marginal centers is well over ten million dollars per year. Camby stuffs stat sheets-he’s averaging 9 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game-and anchor’s George Karl’s defense in Denver.
Monta Ellis, Golden State Warriors, $770, 000.0
Why: Ellis’ lightning quick pace has helped him post solid numbers: 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. Best of all, the third year pro has shown he can play both guard spots. Ellis is an unrestricted free agent this summer, so he’ll score a big contract from Golden State or another team.
David Lee, New York Knicks, $ 990, 000.0
Why: Lee drops solid numbers and never gets caught in the New York media circus. At a million bucks per year, the rugged power forward is a definite bargain. After all, can any amount of cash fairly compensate players for dealing with Isiah Thomas?
Jamario Moon, Toronto Raptors, $400, 000.0
Why: 8 points and 6 rebounds per game. Not bad for a guy the Raptors picked up at a summer free agent camp.
Beno Udrih, Sacramento Kings, $721, 000.0
Why: Udrih is averaging 14 points and 5 assists per game as Sacramento’s starting table-setter. Mike Bibby, whenever he returns from injury, is now very expendable.
These are only a few of the NBA’s most underpaid players. Who are your boxing week bargains? Get at us in the comment box below and click here to read and subscribe to Oly Sandor’s NBA blog.
